Design + Inspiration

Luxury optics: Limited Edition by PRESS Eyewear explores gold leaf

20th October 2025

PRESS Eyewear – The I LOVE GOLD jewellery-inspired luxury edition was released at SILMO Paris 2025 – the collection is the brand’s latest collectible release, produced in limited batch

With refined minimal lines and jewellery inspiration, the Limited Edition features favourite iconic styles from the Streamline and Dreamers collections, such as Barracuda, Bel Air and Cobra. Produced in a limited batch of just 50 numbered pieces, the Edition blends titanium with gold leaf effect with artistry to create luxurious, detail-rich heirloom designs with a completely unique look.
PRESS Eyewear employs a sophisticated triple-plating technique – developed to ensure that the gold pattern enhances every surface with elegance and precision. This unique process adds remarkable depth and texture, resulting in a finish unlike anything seen before. It builds on the brand’s spirit of innovation, following the launch of their marble-inspired Limited-Edition finishes introduced in Spring 2025.
“Our brand continues to delve into new possibilities, and we are excited with what’s been achieved,” says Jeff Press, President + Designer, PRESS Eyewear. “This is one of our most collectible Special Editions to date…we are always looking to create designs in materials that are unique and innovative. Our plating technique produces a gold leaf effect that embodies our commitment to crafting authentically for the face…” Above: vintage overtones meet contemporary innovation: model Barracuda by PRESS Eyewear

I LOVE GOLD frames are finished in a combination of deep black matte and shiny plating artistically accented with gold detailing. The Zeiss brown gold flare lenses not only add warmth and elegance but also provide a smooth transition of tint for both sun protection and style.

LOFT Santa Monica Show October 16th and 17th

SILMO Paris - The Optical Fair. 25th - 28th September 2026

MIDO 6-8 February 2027. Welcome to Eyewearland

‘I LOVE GOLD by PRESS Eyewear’ features eight bestselling shapes from the Streamline and Dreamers collections by PRESS Eyewear: Barracuda, Bel Air, Cobra, Moon, Love, Speedster, Toronado, and Yorba. Made in Japan, each piece is handcrafted to create a beautiful, quality finish where comfort is perfectly fused with unapologetic presence and a remarkable sense of style. Read more about PRESS Eyewear on Eyestylist at https://www.eyestylist.com/2024/04/view-from-an-expert-kayla-heersink-shares-favourite-moments-in-nyc-2/

The styles are constructed from premium materials including titanium with Zeiss nylon lenses, OBE spring hinges and custom silicon-coated nose pads. www.presseyewear.com

Design + Inspiration

Eyewear trends: Silmo Paris, September 2025

10th October 2025

Eyewear trends – Strong colour stories, a myriad of micro trends, and continued focus on fine craftsmanship in the luxury independent collections made for plenty of eyewear design inspiration at the Paris event. The 2025 show was as vibrant and inspirational as ever. The Trends Forum explored a variety of new moods and trends in eyewear – while the 32nd edition of the Silmo d’Or Awards celebrated “excellence, creativity and innovation” for 2025.

The organisers of the Silmo event reported healthy visitor numbers: the show welcomed 33,358 professionals – of those 52% were international visitors and 48% French, representing a net increase of 6.5% in visitors this year. More than 900 companies showcased their expertise and innovations across 75,000 m² of exhibition space. Exhibitors we talked to across the fair during the weekend were pleased with all aspects of the show, and all the events and special showcases organised by Silmo were highly appreciated and well attended. This year, special mention should go to the Moi Aussi Exhibition – Where Art Meets Optics. Conceived and supported by Etnia Barcelona, this exhibition showcased an artistic experience “where eyewear became a canvas for expression”. 90 artists were invited to reinvent eyewear and imagine a creation which transcended its traditional use to become a unique work of art.

Silmo also supports young design talent for the optical business via its Optical Design Contest. In its 4th edition, chaired by Michel Penneman, this year the contest invited design students to imagine “super-hero” eyewear: bold, visionary and innovative. The 2025 winner was GAIA by Hélène Caffin-Pinon (École Design Saint-Étienne), a children’s frame integrating plant recognition via augmented reality. Above: Silmo Paris 2025 – trend display – image courtesy of Silmo Paris

Nina Mûr: the new collection “Luminiers” displayed in the Trends Forum – multi-coloured sustainable wood eyewear made by hand – *image courtesy of Silmo Paris*

Silmo organisers highlighted a range of trends in the Trends Forum, emphasising a return of iconic styles, and a “quest for lightness and serenity”. Two other moods were underlined: a charismatic and assertive “allure” and energy in experimental graphics. A curated selection of optical and sunglass frames from exhibitors’ collections illustrated these directions with the aim of capturing the spirit of the times and anticipating tomorrow’s aesthetics.

Dzmitry Samal won a Silmo d’Or for model Luc – Eyewear Designer Category – Optical Frame

During the weekend we noticed a significant number of micro trends – from very specific vintage eyewear influences to fresh silhouettes – as well as key moods for 2026. Sustainability and sustainable material development are an ongoing focus while a changing approach to colour trends and colour work in eyewear felt fresh and expressive – created to allow more individual expression (all these areas will be looked at in the months to come on Eyestylist.com).

Ahlem x Campbell Addy Limited Edition – a sneak peek at Silmo Paris 2025 – one of the collab highlights we saw

The finest luxury eyewear brands and artisan labels – from across the world – were out in force at Silmo this year. Highlights we got to see included the new models at Rigards including the new Rigards x Ziggy Chen style “Moon Owl” (https://www.eyestylist.com/2025/09/silmo-paris-2025-rigards/), and refined handcrafted eyewear by Jacques Durand, Thierry Lasry (a new buffalo horn collection produced with Hoffmann), Lazare Studio, Lafont Paris and Press Eyewear. We are always impressed with newcomers and the start-up area, created to promote new creative talent, and the smaller independent brands showcased so well at Silmo – special mention to two of our favourite brands in France that are consistent in their quality, artistry and brand authenticity – Pontet – by Hermes Pontet (https://pontet-eyewear.com) – and the lovely Maggio Eyewear label, also from the South of France, the work of Julia Maggio (https://www.maggiojulia.com)

Additionally, Ahlem showed us their new collaboration with Campbell Addy, featuring two truly gorgeous frames, a beautifully crafted “sculpted-look” acetate and a reimagined luxurious gold aviator (pictured above).

FACE A FACE: model Flare won the Silmo d’Or – Eyewear Designer Category – Sunglasses – image courtesy of FACE A FACE

This year, the Silmo d’Or awards were chaired by the designer Oliver Lapidus. Among the winners were QED Eyewear in the Technological Innovation in Eyewear category for their model Phi – featuring a patented fastening system that can be assembled and disassembled quickly and easily with many sustainable advantages. In the independent eyewear designer categories, Dzmitry Samal won with the polygonal optical model Luc which featured coloured resin inserts. FACE A FACE won the Eyewear Designer category – Sunglasses with their impressive sunglasses model Flare. The Jury’s special prize went to the Barcelona brand SAPIENS for the model ER1813-M.

Next year, Silmo will take place on 25th to 28th September 2026 at Paris Nord Villepinte. Find out more at www.silmoparis.com

For all the news on the Silmo d’Or awards in 2025, visit https://www.silmoparis.com/en/silmo-awards/silmo-or/laureats

Design + Inspiration

TVR®OPT: Woody Carved Collection celebrates 10th anniversary

8th October 2025

The collection launched in Beijing, China in September; it is now available worldwide

Renowned for his refined digital illustrations that merge fashion with storytelling, South Korean artist Seungwon Hong continues to blur the lines between art and style through his latest collaboration with TVR®OPT. As the Woody Carved collection celebrates its tenth anniversary, Hong reflects on his creative journey, his passion for fashion, and the inspiration behind The Golden Wood Grain—a golden-hued tribute to craftsmanship, nature, and timeless design.

Based in Seoul, Hong is celebrated for his fusion of men’s fashion and impressionistic art. Inspired by stylish individuals and classical masters like Van Gogh, Monet, and Gauguin, his work resonates with elegance and emotional depth. Using digital tools such as tablets, Photoshop, and a MacBook Pro, he has collaborated with major fashion houses including Giorgio Armani, Zegna, and Brooks Brothers, with his illustrations exhibited widely across Seoul. His aesthetic is also shaped by cinematic icons, particularly James Bond, whose refined style continues to influence his creative direction. Above: new “Woody Carved” designs from TVR®OPT

TVR®OPT: Woody Carved Collection 2025 – the wood grain effect has a unique look

Hong’s relationship with TVR®OPT began in 2016 with a fashion illustration project interpreting the brand’s eyewear through his distinctive lens. This partnership blossomed into a formal collaboration in 2021 with the TVR® Classic JD Blackwood Edition. Now, in 2025, he returns with The Golden Wood Grain, the key visual for TVR®OPT’s Art Edition Packaging Collection, launched to honour a decade of the Woody Carved collection.

TVR®OPT China marked its official return with an exclusive private event and trunk show, held for the first time under the direct management of the Japan team. Taking place at The Ascott Hotel, Beijing in September, the event welcomed VIPs, KOLs, and loyal customers. Guests were invited to participate in a hands-on Woody Carved Workshop, deepening their appreciation of the artistry behind the collection. Themed around art and craftsmanship, the event celebrated both the tenth anniversary of the Woody Carved Collection—which debuted in 2013—and the launch of the new Art Edition, featuring Hong’s illustrations. The wood texture, now iconic to TVR®OPT, traces its origins back to the 1999 Wood Tone Romance Collection, created by master craftsman Eizo Onami. Exclusive décor inspired by Hong’s new artworks further brought the spirit of the collaboration to life.

Event in China to launch the collection, featuring the collaborative works for the launch by South Korean artist, Seungwon Hong

The Woody Carved story began with Mokuchoroman (木調浪漫), or “Wood Tone Romance,” a poetic vision of eyewear that resembled wood without being made of it. This philosophy lives on in TVR®OPT Woody Carved—a modern reinterpretation that combines hand-brushed wood grain artistry with vintage-inspired design. Founder Eizo Onami reflects on this evolution, describing it as a journey shaped by both romance and resilience.

Onami was guided by the Japanese philosophy of wabi-sabi, which embraces imperfection and natural simplicity. He introduced the subtle “Aged Rivet” detail to symbolise the passage of time, creating a design that honours the raw beauty of nature and the acceptance of flaws.

“I’ve always wanted to create eyewear made from wood, but using real wood presents many challenges. It doesn’t last, it’s difficult to shape, and it wears quickly with weather changes. People may not fully realise the issues that come with actual wooden frames.” — Eizo Onami, TVR®OPT

TVR®OPT: concept and packaging for Woody Carved frames by Seungwon Hong

First launched in 2015, the collection returns with limited editions of the TVR®504 and TVR®505 frames. Key updates include upgraded hinges with 14K gold washers and the 6mm Japanese Zylonite acetate frames. The hand-brushed wood grain textures gain character over time.

Designed and developed by Eizo Onami – With more than 50 years in eyewear, Onami developed the patented Woody Carved technique—a process of over 280 meticulous steps performed by a single craftsman. Each frame is hand-brushed with a metal brush to replicate natural wood grain, gradually developing a glossy patina unique to every wearer. This innovative method, never before used in eyewear, has since inspired many brands worldwide. Following the passing of its original craftsmen, the collection was discontinued for years. Onami devoted over a decade to reviving the technique, training new artisans and refining the process. After five years of intensive development, the 2025 re-release marks a new chapter for TVR®OPT—a testament to the patience, dedication, and pride that define true handmade craftsmanship.

Find out more about the new collection at www.tvropt.com

All images by kind permission of TVR®OPT

Design + Inspiration

Autumn eyewear trends: artistic colour gradients

3rd October 2025

Gradient tones were frequently unveiled in our preview appointments at SILMO Paris..the tones are subtle, sophisticated and full of character and artistry

Sophisticated colour palettes and a beautiful exploration of the effects of gradients or graduated hues, the eyewear collections for Autumn/Winter served up some interesting new directions and colour mixes that felt creative and artistic, revisiting the shaded effects with new ideas and imaginative colour matches. Above: RSF Autumn/Winter – model Cherry Side Fade – model Cherry is an interpretation of the concept of street culture; the model recalls swimming goggles “which have evolved through a 90s rap video. The colour – with a special side fade – creates a new look compared to the more common vertical transition – www.retrosuperfuture.com

Andy Wolf – model Daisy – image by Fanette Guilloud

The Daisy sunglasses at Andy Wolf are a popular oversized cat-eye inspired shape. The gradient effect introduced explores three tones on the frame front, contrasting translucent and saturated colours for a dramatic result. www.andywolf.com

Model Nick by Veronika Wildgruber is a new rectangular acetate frame with soft edges, defined by its subtle complexity. A double shift in thickness creates the gentle colour gradients, adding depth and movement. The straight bridge provides minimalist clarity, giving the frame its calm, contemporary character. Find out more about the new collection at www.veronikawildgruber.com

LOOK ‘Nil Xinox’ 5433 – the material is said to be ideal for everyday given its lightness and comfort

A sophisticated tribute to the 1990s, reinterpreted with a contemporary twist, this series by Italian eyewear company LOOK is known for its attention to detail and the red dots on the temples. The ‘NIL’ solid colour fronts alternate with elegantly nuanced hues (see above) that dialogue with compact, harmonious dimensions. It is the ideal choice for those who love a retro yet timeless aesthetic and is designed for the adult consumer with a smaller face. The versatility of the colour is “a nod to Gen Z consumers with delicately vibrant shades”. The colourway pictured is called shiny transparent purple-brown gradient – paired with sleek temples in a light shade of shiny gold. Find out more at www.lookocchiali.com

Design + Inspiration

Jisco Eyewear celebrates 12 years of colour and Mediterranean essence

2nd October 2025

Francisco Marin, CEO told Eyestylist how the independent brand – based in Barcelona – has preserved its identity and grown a following of customers around the world, as it celebrates its 12th birthday

JISCO is 12 years old. How do you reflect on the journey so far, and what are your priorities in terms of the design direction of the brand Yes, that’s right – this year JISCO celebrates 12 years. As CEO and as a Mallorcan, I have great pride to see how an idea inspired by the light, colour and lifestyle of the Mediterranean has grown into a brand with an international presence. Over this time, we have learned the importance of staying true to our essence: designing eyewear that conveys authenticity, optimism and personality, always with a strong connection to our customers.

In terms of design direction, our priority is to keep evolving without losing the Mediterranean identity that makes us unique. We are committed to innovation in materials, sustainability, and to creating collections that balance trend and timelessness, so that every person wearing JISCO feels they are expressing their individuality in a natural and elegant way.

Colour is integrated at JISCO with energy and passion. How do you find new directions and particular inspiration for each collection? Mention any recent campaigns. Colour has always been part of JISCO’s DNA. It’s not just a design element, it’s the way we express the vibrancy and optimism of the Mediterranean. Our inspiration comes above all from nature, the landscapes and the light of our home – the sea, the sky, the earthy tones of the coast, and the way these colours change with the seasons. From there, we translate this energy into eyewear that feels fresh, modern, and full of personality. Above: JISCO frames offer uplifting colourways and easy-to-wear “statement” shapes

At the same time, we listen carefully to our customers and to the markets to understand how they want to express themselves. This dialogue helps us reinterpret colour in every new collection – whether through subtle, sophisticated tones or bold, statement combinations.

Our most recent campaign, Jiscotheque, is a good example of this philosophy. While it is divided into three chapters that follow the rhythm of the seasons, the entire concept is built under one unifying idea: the Mediterranean celebration. A party mood, fashion, and lifestyle all come together as an expression of joy and connection. Each chapter of the campaign introduces new models and colour palettes that reflect not only the season, but also the different moments of life throughout the year. This way, colour becomes a true bridge between our brand identity and the individuality of our customers.

Is there a frame style or look that you have had particular success with this year, and what has been successful in terms of new shapes and colours? While acetate frames remain essential in any eyewear collection – especially as acetate is a natural and, in our case, eco-friendly material – we have also invested strongly in developing new product families that expand our offer. One of the most successful this year has been our Comfort line, which combines stainless steel with Eco Trogamid, an eco-sustainable injected plastic.

This material allows us to design extremely lightweight frames with outstanding comfort, while still maintaining the distinctive JISCO personality in terms of colour and style. The Comfort line has been particularly successful across several markets because it bridges two worlds: the technical and functional side of eyewear, and the aesthetic and lifestyle values that define JISCO. For us, it represents a perfect balance between innovation, sustainability, and Mediterranean-inspired design.

Have you expanded into new markets (since our last interview in 2023) and do you find that the JISCO styles have global appeal? From the very beginning, JISCO was born with an international vocation. For us, Europe has always been our “local” market, and everything beyond Europe we see as international. This way of thinking comes naturally – our founders are from different parts of the world, so even though we are a small company in size, we have always felt big in spirit and in vision.

The years 2023 to 2025 have not been easy. Political tensions, conflicts and uncertainty have made markets more fragile, and consumers more careful in their choices. Our clients feel this reality every day, and we feel it with them. That is why we chose to focus on what we can do best: standing close to our strongest markets – Germany, France, Italy and Spain – and nurturing long-term relationships with our partners abroad. These relationships are not just business agreements; they are true partnerships built on trust and shared vision. They have been the key to ensuring that our growth continues in a stable and healthy way.

Recently, we began a new collaboration in the UK, and the first six months have already been a wonderful success. For us, this is much more than a market expansion – it is proof that, even in difficult times, the Mediterranean soul of JISCO and our way of blending design, comfort and individuality connects with people everywhere. And in the end, that connection with people is what our brand is all about.

What has launched this month for SILMO and what is coming up in 2026 at Jisco? SILMO is always a very special moment for us – not only a trade show, but a place where we connect face to face with our clients, partners and friends in the industry. For JISCO, it’s the opportunity to share what we’ve been working on and, at the same time, to listen closely to the feedback and ideas that inspire our next steps.

This year we have presented a very exclusive capsule collection called Gaston. It is limited and numbered to just 100 pieces per colour, created for the most passionate JISCO fans – those who want to take one step further into design, colour and sophistication. Alongside this, we are also launching new models made entirely of titanium. This new titanium family is just the beginning, and in 2026 we will be developing it much further. We believe that working with this material in the JISCO way allows us to push our collection to a new level, combining technical excellence with Mediterranean style.

Looking ahead, our vision for 2026 is to keep growing in a sustainable and human way, reinforcing our close relationships with partners in every market, and staying faithful to the values that define us. For us, the future is not just about trends or numbers, but about building a brand that people trust, enjoy and feel connected to. That is the spirit we bring to SILMO and to every step forward.

Trends in eyewear come and go…what do you think will be a lasting look that we will see trending in the months coming up and then on into Spring Summer 2026? Trends are important because they create movement and energy in our industry, but what truly lasts is when a trend connects with people on a deeper level. At JISCO, we believe that in the coming months and into Spring/Summer 2026, two elements will remain very strong: the search for individuality, and the desire for comfort.

Customers are looking for frames that allow them to express who they are – through colour, shape or material – but without giving up on lightness, functionality and sustainability. This is why we see acetate continuing as a timeless material, while technical innovations such as eco-friendly injected plastics and titanium will gain even more relevance. They allow us to design eyewear that is not only beautiful, but also responsible and extremely comfortable to wear.

In terms of aesthetics, we believe bold reinterpretations of classic shapes, vibrant colour combinations, and subtle details that make a frame unique will remain key. What will truly endure, however, is the Mediterranean approach that inspires us: eyewear as part of a lifestyle, full of light, joy and authenticity. That spirit, more than any passing trend, is what we see shaping the future.

To find out more about JISCO Eyewear visit www.jiscoeyewear.com